Mullaney offers versatility to Bulls

Dave Craven

BRADFORD BULLS have signed Salford Red Devils full-back Jake Mullaney on a one-year deal for 2015.

The Australian, 24, has not played since tearing a pectoral muscle against Widnes Vikings at Magic Weekend, an injury that required surgery and ruined his debut season in Super League having joined from Parramatta Eels.

Salford, of course, have since captured New Zealand World Cup finalist Kevin Locke and also seen youngster Niall Evalds make impressive progress, so goalkicker Mullaney is surplus to requirements.

Instead, he becomes Bradford coach James Lowes’s second signing after Castleford Tigers prop Dan Fleming as they prepare for life in the Championship.

Having also played wing and stand-off, Mullaney offers plenty of versatility to the relegated club and, ahead of his October arrival for pre-season training, said: “I’m really looking forward to getting back playing consistently.

“I’m excited at the prospect of helping the Bulls make it back into Super League, too.

“Bradford is a massive club and I was well aware of the success enjoyed here while growing up in Australia.

“Back home, the Bulls are regarded as still one of the biggest clubs around and so I am really pleased to be joining.”

Lowes added: “Jake is a real talent and we are looking forward to seeing what he will bring to the team.

“He has been set back by injuries this season, meaning consistency has been an issue for him.

“But I am sure he will knuckle down us later this year, when the players start pre-season training, and prove his ability in a Bradford shirt.”